AUMC Home     Youth     About Us     Activities     Admin     Calendar     Contact Us     Directory     Education     Music     Pray     Sermons     Worship      
Sermon Series     Video Wisdom      

SERMONS BY DATE

ALDERSGATE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH SERMONS

 

"We WELCOME all people, HEAL and TRANSFORM them in GRACE,

and SEND out PASSIONATE DISCIPLES of Jesus Christ."

 

 

 

 

 

     

Please scroll down using the scroll bar to the right

 

 

Sermon Series Title Sermon Date Readings Speaker Link to Audio Link to Text Notes
AUMC's Vision Statement   Radical Hospitality of Biblical Proportions   1/8/2012   Ruth 1:6-19, Luke 10:25-37   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

First I want to thank Laura Wall for her leadership at worship on January 1st.  The wisdom, sensitivity, and the deep and meaningful theology around gratitude was beautiful to read, and I'm sure even more beautiful to hear.  Laura's words set a solid foundation for what will follow. 

 What follows is a four part series on the Aldersgate statement of vision.  It reads, "We welcome all people, heal and transform them in grace, and send out passionate disciples of Jesus Christ."  It is a powerful statement that deserves attention, particularly as we enter into our 50th anniversary year. 

 

This Sunday we will examine the statement of welcome.  What does it mean to welcome all people?  How do we welcome?  Does Aldersgate have a culture of welcoming and how might we know if it does?  These are all questions that deserve examination, and that examination begins again this Sunday.  The sermon title is "Radical Hospitality of Biblical Proportions."  To prepare please read Ruth 1: 6 - 19 and Luke 10: 25 - 37. 

 
AUMC's Vision Statement   Being Spiritual Practitioners   1/15/2012   James 5:13-16, Mark 2:1-12   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

Last week, in the first Sunday of examining our vision statement, I talked about creating a culture of welcoming, of moving it from the simple idea of 'gathering all people' or of being an assignment or job of one person, of the ushers and greeters, and transforming it into a culture that engages everyone in the congregation, and everyone who enters the parking lot and walks through the doors of the church. This week we move to the second piece of the vision statement as we examine the statement, "we heal and transform them." The language in this part of the statement is challenging. Do we heal them, transform them, or do we offer opportunities for the Source of healing to enter into them in new ways? Might it be some combination of both? The idea of transformation raises similar questions. Transformation - from what, to what? Until we are able to get our heads and hearts around these difficult questions, it will be challenging to move forward into this vision. So let's talk!

 
AUMC's Vision Statement   God's List   1/22/2012   Philippians 2:1-5, Matthew 5:1-16   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

Passion is defined as "any powerful or compelling emotion or feeling; an intense, driving or overmastering feeling or conviction; deep devotion to some activity, emotion or cause."  Passion is often born out of something deeper than what may lay on the surface.  It is often related to a relationship, an experience, or even a history - whether in marriage, or politics, or even in a life of faith.  Passion also means "an intense energy focused in one direction."  When I read our Vision Statement and see the words, "passionate disciple of Jesus Christ," I see something more than a Sunday morning person of faith.  I see someone whose life has been changed, redefined, even transformed and who is now moving actively in a specific direction.  I see someone whose life is focused, deep, and faith-filled.  I see a person who is as passionate about their faith as any other part of their lives.  So that again begs the question, what does that mean for you or for us?   Are we at Aldersgate producing disciples who are filled with passion; life-changing, life-transforming, life-giving passion?  That will be the focus of the message this Sunday.  To prepare, read Philippians 2:1 - 5 and Matthew 5:1 - 16.

 
AUMC's Vision Statement   The Journey   1/29/2012   Acts 1:6-11, Mark 12:28-34   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

The work of a Christian stands out in that it is never just about us. It is about an ever-deepening relationship as followers of Christ. It is about loving God first yet it can never stop there. It moves out as we love our neighbors - offering them what we offer ourselves: comfort, security, food, rest, even love. Our neighbors are those with whom we worship and those who are beyond the doors of the church. And there is a cycle to this scriptural equation. As much as I feel at times like the preverbal "broken record" these concepts and this cycle are essential elements to the health of a church. Being sent is the final piece before the cycle begins again. Being sent means that we are being sent from somewhere - in this case it is our home church. This is our foundation, our grounding place, our guiding place, even our assigning place. After being sent, we return and are welcomed home, and all who are gathered are ready to hear the stories of what happened 'out there.' And so the visionary cycle continues as we welcome, heal, transform, deepen discipleship, are sent and then return. It is our vision, our mission, our process, and our hope. To prepare for Sunday please read Acts 1:6-11 (one more time) and Mark 12:28-34.

 
Basic Christianity   In Search of Soul   2/5/2012   Psalm 37:1-11, Matthew 11:28-30   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

Today we begin a series that takes basic Christianity deeper.  We begin with the soul.  What is it?  How do we go deeper?  I believe that our understanding of the soul will, in great measure define our ability to have faith, to comprehend God and the movement of God, and more clearly understand Jesus.  The soul is the pathway to faith, the location of faith within our being, even the center of the potential for faith within ourselves.  Nothing is more important than to find it again, open it wider, and offer that connection to the Spirit of God.  In addition, to add to the search for soul and to go deeper in our faith, we will be utilizing the Book of Psalms. This week it is the first eleven verses of Psalm 37.  Verse 4 should read, "Delight yourself in God, and God will shape or give form to the desires of your heart."  But what does that mean to have our desires shaped by God?   For exploration of this and so much more, we'll see you in worship.

 
Basic Christianity   Don't Get Caught by the Tide!"   2/12/2012   Colossians 3:12-17, Matthew 6:5-15   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio   pdf  

This is Scout Sunday and we welcome all of those who are involved in Boy or Girl Scouts, Brownies or Campfire, and any other organization that teaches skills to our kids.  This Sunday we'll be exploring pieces of scouting, of being on a backpacking trip and even what happens when things go wrong.  Like in scouting, we need to be carrying our ten essentials for faith.  They will give us hope in times of despair, encouragement in challenging times, food when we are hungry, rest when we are weary, and hope even when we feel lost.  They will lift us up.  In addition, there are ten essentials for church health.  We will be exploring those as well and offer ourselves the test to see where we are as we place ourselves up against these ten personal and ten corporate essentials.  Come and find out what they are. 

 
Basic Christianity   Leaning into Your Fears   2/26/2012   Psalm 23, Matthew 8:23-27   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio   pdf  

This is the first Sunday within Lent, a Sunday where we pause within the Lenten journey and become refreshed, even prepared for the upcoming week. Lent, as you have heard, is a time to create space for God, to move deeper into the relationship and explore new and more meaningful ways to experience God's love and grace.  This first Sunday we will be exploring fear.  It is often fear that prevents us from experiencing life, fear that causes us to hold back, and fear that takes root in our hearts that can become an obstacle to experiencing what God has in mind for us.  Our fears play out in a variety of ways, all too often unhealthy ways.  Yet, if we truly understand the role God can play in our lives, fear need not take control.  How often have we heard the words of scripture, "Be not afraid"?  What we will find is that if we voice our fears, share our fears, even lean into our fears and allow God and those around us to help, we will find the fulfillment of the other item we hear so often in scripture; that "it is love that casts out all fear."  This Sunday we'll explore how that works.

 
Basic Christianity   Who is Writing Your Story, Our Story and What Does it Say?   3/4/2012   Psalm 40: 4 - 17, Luke 1: 1 – 4   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio   pdf  

Last Sunday I talked about the inherent challenges in looking within ourselves for those places where we miss the mark, the times of failure, and the needs we have.  This Sunday we continue in that vein but add to it the essential elements of authorship - that we are not alone in writing our story and the more we understand the forces that have moved through and around us, the more we will understand our stories and how they may be written from here on out. 

Story is a powerful thing.  It is defining, often endearing; honest - even painfully so.  Story just is.  Yet, in this time of Lent, we set aside time to potentially rewrite, even redefine our own story by including God in ways otherwise unknown.  The basic premise of Lent is just that.  We give up something in order to create more time; more time to pray, to think, to offer, to define ourselves in light of God. 

Lent can be the same for a church, for Aldersgate.  What are we doing to allow our story to be written in deeper, more effective spiritual, even transformational ways?  We will have just come off of the leadership retreat and I will bring information from that event.  I leave you with this thought.  It is the question that will lead off the leadership retreat.  What is the Aldersgate experience?  To identify that is to identify our story.  So, who is writing the story - us or God, or both?  

 
Basic Christianity   Where, What, Who Is Your Source of Power?   3/11/2012   Psalm 77:11-20, John 1:1-14   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio   pdf  

Last week we talked about the power of story, our story, even God's story. We explored the power inherent in combining those two stories. This Sunday we take it deeper. What is that power? How does it work? Power is defined in so many differing ways depending on where the conversation is focused. Power means strength. Power can mean might. Power can mean electricity. But what does it mean in regards to God? The Old Testament constantly talks of God as powerful, something to fear, awesome and overwhelming. Yet we talk of God communicating in a still small voice. Our perceptions of the power of God will more readily define our faith than almost anything else. We'll explore that God-power, but this time as a source, as good, as defining, even redefining. To engage that source is to feel the power. When was the last time you felt it?

 
Basic Christianity   The Power of Significance   3/18/2012   Psalm 34:1-14, John 15:12-17   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio   pdf  

Over these past three weeks we've dealt with leaning into our fears, who is writing our stories, and the various understandings of power. The hope has been to continue to solidify a solid foundation of faith that carries the possibilities of strengthening our lives. This Sunday we add another piece.

One of the most powerful elements in what shapes our lives of faith has us turning outward. How we do that seems less important as taking the actions. Significance - actions that have a positive, even life-changing influence on others is key. The mystical piece of significance is that the actions we take not only can change the lives of those we seek to serve. Those same actions change us. Research supports the somewhat mystical aspects of this. We know that a feeling of significance can be key in helping children and youth overcome the temptations around them. We know that when they feel as though they are making a positive difference in the lives of another human being they are much less at risk for doing antisocial things. The same can be said of adults. Feeling significant, feeling as though our presence, our actions, our work - whether volunteer or professional moves us deeper into our selves, deeper into our role in the world, and deeper in our understanding of God. We were designed to be significant. We are to God. This combination of outward action creating inward health is powerful.  Why is that? We'll explore that in this fourth Sunday in Lent.

 
Basic Christianity   A Prodigal Returns   3/25/2012   Psalm 73:21-28, Luke 15:11-32, Romans 8:31-39   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio   pdf  
This Sunday we will be studying a painting. It is a beautiful and profound depiction of one of the most powerful stories in scripture. It deals with fears, with authorship, with power, with the sources of strength as seen in the Father's love. It will help us deepen our understanding of significance. It will, in some very literal ways, tie this whole Lenten series together. The painting is Rembrandt's, Return of the Prodigal Son. We will explore each piece, and maybe most importantly, where we may see ourselves in the painting and story as we prepare for Palm Sunday next week, Holy Week, and finally Easter. It's so important that we find our place in the story; God's place, even the places occupied by others in our lives. So where are you? To prepare read Psalm 73:22-28, Luke 15:11-22 and, if you have time Romans 8:31-39.
 
Basic Christianity   What Do You Need?"   4/15/2012   Psalm 133, John 20:19-31   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio   pdf  

This Sunday we look at the rest of the story. It didn't end with the rumors of his resurrection. He knew they would need more proof than that. Once again Jesus went to them wherever they were, whether hidden behind locked doors for fear that they too would suffer the same fate, or by meeting them in a garden and calling them by name. To each he gave what was needed; particularly to Thomas. "Doubting Thomas?" I don't think so. More than many, Thomas knew where he stood on such things and given his own understanding of faith; of good and evil, of right and wrong, of faith and works, Thomas made the most dramatic change on this day of resurrection. In so many ways, Thomas was reborn and his faith redefined by the One who stood before him. Again, Jesus knew what he needed and provided it. God still does - knows what we need in order to believe, and will provide it. So, what do you need?

 
Called to be Church   And so, it begins...   10/9/2011   Luke 24:44-53, Acts 1:7-17, 21-22 & 26   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

How does a church come together as diverse disciples once the one they've followed is gone?  How do they establish leaders, and move ahead into the future as one Body - united by one Spirit?  We kick off the stewardship campaign today as we explore this first chapter of Acts.  The early church brought all that they had and shared it with the community.  In as much as we don't do that, we need to bring all that we have in spirit; our giftedness, our passions, and a portion of our financial gifts to be shared so that the ministry that began with those earliest of Christians, can continue on into and through us today.  We are the Body of Christ seeking to live out our faith in community.  We are the Body of Christ seeking to live out our faith in the community. We are the Body of Christ seeking to live out our faith for the transformation of the world.  

 
Called to be Church   So, What's at Stake for Us?   10/16/2011   Luke 3:3-6, 15-17, Acts 2:1-18   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

We believe in a power much greater than us and find that, as we move deeper into that relationship, we become filled by the breath of God and ignited by the ever-creating fire of God. Pentecost changed everything - and we see that most readily in Simon who on this day becomes what Jesus saw in him - a rock. Peter focused on four key elements for us as churches. He was confident, had conviction, made a connection, and offered it with compassion (The Maxwell Leadership Bible). Peter, his transformation, his confidence, and his speech as though something was at stake will be the focus of the message today. To prepare please read the second chapter of Acts.

 
Called to be Church   Life and Death Together   10/23/2011   Luke 18:15-17, Acts 4:31-37   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    
This Sunday we continue in our study of Acts. We will be confronted with one of the strangest stories in scripture, that of Ananias and Sapphira. We will explore what it means to give to the church and examine some of the ministries occurring within the doors of Aldersgate. To prepare, read Acts 4 and 5 and remember that, as members, we are asked to support the work of the church with our prayers, our presence, our gifts, our service, and our witness. In as much as we are not asked to give all that we have to the work of Aldersgate, we are asked to give our full selves to God and a part of ourselves to the work here. So, what are the consequences of being in a church where that doesn't happen; where those attending do not take seriously the membership vows? In a nutshell...it is death. Not of the people, but of the church. It is when everyone comes together, shares what they have, trusts in each other and in the mission of the church, catches a vision, and offers who they are and what they have, that a church grows, deepens, and becomes both vibrant and relevant. So, where are we at this point in our church life? Let's explore it together.
 
Called to Be Church   In Giving We Receive   10/30/2011   Luke 3:10-16, Acts 8:26-31   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

Last week we heard the story of the early disciples bringing all they had and sharing it among the gathered community. The United Methodist Church has found a way to do something similar, to share a portion of what each church has and bring it together for the greater good. This Sunday we will explore the inherent power in what it means to be a United Methodist Church; the underlying strength of being in a connectional denomination; and the abilities to build, expand, and empower ministries because of that connection. Everyone who comes into membership in this denomination commits to supporting the ministries of the church with their prayers, their presence, their gifts, their service, and their witness. Now multiply that commitment nine million times and you begin to realize the potential power. In addition, Mr. Tom Wilson, Executive Director of the United Methodist Foundation, will be here to share what our gifts are doing throughout the connection. He will be offering opportunities after both services for questions and answers about the work of the United Methodist Foundation and how it continues to benefit us as a church. To prepare read Acts 8:26-31.

 
Called to be Church   For All the Saints   11/6/2011   John 11:22-27, Acts 9:32-42   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

We will be lighting candles for those who have gone on into that "great cloud of witnesses," honoring and remembering them for their influence on each of us. We will be remembering Jesus, who, on the night that he was betrayed took the bread and the cup, blessed them, and began a new covenant with those of us who have followed. In the midst of those times of remembering, we will also look ahead as we bring our gifts of commitment to the work that lays ahead for the coming year at Aldersgate.   It will be a somewhat quiet and meaningful service of remembrance and of commitment. To prepare read Acts 9:32-42 and John 11: 22-27.

 
Called to be Church   The Call of God   11/13/2011   Luke 5:27-32, Acts 9:1-19   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

This week we move back to our study of Acts by asking the questions: How is it possible that the spy and villain Saul, the one who guarded the cloaks of those who killed young Stephen; becomes the apostle, evangelist, Christian church-champion Paul? What did he bring to the table that the original disciples did not? And, what does that mean for us?  These vitally important questions will be explored this Sunday. We will celebrate communion again this Sunday as we continue to explore the Book of Acts and the early church; its influence, its challenges, and where it may be leading us as we approach the Table of Grace again this Sunday.

 
Called to be Church   Fruit Is Singular   11/20/2011   Galatians 5:16-25, Acts 11:1-18, 25,26   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

What does it mean to be "Christian," to be followers or disciples of Jesus Christ? Last week we talked about conversion; of hearing a call and going to the ground in prayer, of turning another direction, listening and moving toward that call, and then of risking ourselves in order to take action. This week we hear Peter talk about a significant change. Suddenly this Jewish movement moves and expands beyond Judaism. It takes on its own identity and begins to move through a whole new population. The key phrase here is "What God has made clean, you must not profane or judge." So what is it that makes us "clean"? How will we know if it's working? Who might be the new populations that need to hear a good word? And why do we still struggle under this seeming need to judge? We again will receive communion, this time around the triclynium table. To prepare, read Acts 11: 1 - 18 & verses 25 - 26; and Galatians 5:16 - 25. 

 
Called to by Church   Receiving Power and Offering Our Witness   10/2/2011   Acts 1:1-8, Mark 16:14-20   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

Why study this book now, the Book of Acts? This is a key question as we move forward together as a church!  We will be exploring what it means to receive power from on high, to be witnesses in our mission field, in [our own] Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. 

The assignment this week: memorize Acts 1:8.

 
Grace Happens   Grace! Does it Really Happen   7/31/2011   Colossians 3:12-17; John 15:9-17   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

This Sunday we kickoff an eight week study based on the book Gracious Christianity: Living the Love We Profess by Jacobsen and Sawatsky.

When we say, "Grace Happens" what do we really mean?  Grace is one of the most complex theological concepts out there.  I would like to set out a number of assumptions and check them out with the church.  This will move us deeper into an understanding of ourselves, our mission, and begin setting a vision for the future of Aldersgate United Methodist Church.

 
Grace Happens   Creation Grace   8/7/2011   Genesis 1:1-2:2   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

The 1960's folk song says, "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands."  This Sunday we explore grace at its foundation.  Grace has been a part of God's creation from the very beginning.  We see it in the blossoms of trees in the spring that appeared dead in the winter.  We see it in the rhythms of nature, the peace in the forest, and in the beauty that surrounds us every day.  On Sunday, we will explore it more deeply.  Come, be a part of worship at Aldersgate where grace really does happen. 

 
Grace Happens   The Great Debate about Human Nature - Is There Grace?   8/14/2011   Romans 7:21-8:2, John 15:1-17   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

As creations of God, are we inherently good or inherently evil? Process theology would say that we are inherently good - if we allow ourselves to enter into the movement of God. The apostle Paul and John Wesley would say that we are inherently evil and nothing good lives in us apart from Christ. So which is it, and where might grace enter into this equation? We'll explore that this Sunday.

 
Grace Happens   Hearing the Consistent Grace of God's Voice   8/21/2011   1 Kings 19:7-13,Luke 6:6-19   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

What does it mean to hear the still small voice of God?  Ponder this - To hear means that we have to create space and time so that we can listen.  To listen is to stop telling God our agenda and to hear God's.  To hear is to potentially become engaged, empowered, even invited to take God's action.  To take action may begin with a change in hearts.  To be changed is to find oneself consistently living a life that involves God.  To live the life of God is to be filled with grace.  Are we living out the call to grace we hear in the still small voice of God?

 
Grace Happens   Salvation Grace - What Does It Really Mean for Us   9/4/2011   Ephesians 2:4-10, John 14:1-7   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    
What is soteriology? It is the theology of salvation. We come together for communion and therefore we will hear the ancient words about the cup of salvation and of His body being broken for us. You will hear again about doing this in remembrance of Him. In our remembering, my hope is that we think as much about His life as His death, and what both mean for us today.   We will explore soteriology as we continue to examine grace
 
Grace Happens   Spirit Led and Fed Grace - On Being Grace Filled   9/11/2011   Acts 2:1-4, John 14:22-27   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

On the tenth anniversary of 9/11 we will take some time to remember, to pray, and to examine where we've come in these past ten years. We pray that the same transforming Spirit that was present on that day of Pentecost is present in and around us today. We will celebrate the first week of Together We Build, welcome back all of those who have been away this summer, resume our fall schedule, and register for Sunday school. Between services will be the annual Ministry Fair. So invite a friend and come worship, celebrate, welcome, and pray.

 
Grace Happens   Being a Church Where Grace Happens   9/18/2011   Romans 12:9-18, Mark 8:1-8   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

This Sunday we examine the adventures that surround being the church. It is an ongoing adventure because it involves humans seeking to be in relationship with each other exploring together relationships with things beyond themselves; an adventure because each are individuals who come together seeking unity; an adventure because each person brings different experiences, different understandings, different views, and different histories. It is an adventure because each has a story to tell, and the church has its own story.   Sunday we explore the adventure. Come, be a part of it all. See you in church.

 
Grace Happens   Grace and Our Future - A Look Ahead   9/25/2011   1 Corinthians 13, Matthew 7:24-29   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

We've spent the last couple of months working our way through the book, "Gracious Christianity - Living the Love We Profess." The responses have been a wonderful gift. I've learned about you, Aldersgate United Methodist Church; what may lie at your core; those things, those most important aspects of ministry for you, and even who you are. This Sunday we conclude the series. We will go back one more time and examine the foundational pieces of John Wesley's understanding of grace, of faith, and of actions; and what it means to have our hearts "strangely warmed" by this God of grace. Come and be a part of it all.

 
Guest Series   "What Is Heaven?" It's not Annual Conference, or is it?   7/24/2011   Romans 8:26-39, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52   Jean Harris   audio    

Jean Harris will preach this Sunday. Jean has been a member of Aldersgate since 2005. Prior to AUMC, Jean was a member of Everett First UMC for over 35 years. She is a Conference Certified Lay Speaker and has been Aldersgate's Lay Representative to the Annual Conference for the last five years

 
Guest Series   The Butterfly Effect   8/28/2011   Exodus 1:8 - 2:10, Romans 12:1-8, Matthew 16:13-20   Rev. Melody Young   audio    

Today we welcome Rev. Melody Young to the pulpit.  She is a Presbyterian pastor and mother of Nathan Young, our first service creative music director.  She will lead us in worship while Pastor Brad is on the church retreat with many of our congregation.

 
Guest Series   God's Beloved   2/19/2012   Psalm 139:1-3, 13, 14, Mark 9:2-8   Rev. Shannon Hamrick   audio    

Rev. Shannon Hamrick will be leading worship here at Aldersgate and will bring the message this Sunday.  Shannon will be assisting us to begin our turn toward Lent.  It is Transfiguration Sunday and she will be exploring the meaning of that central event in Mark's gospel.  She will set that story alongside one of the most powerful Psalms in scripture; Psalm 139.  All of it centers in a single phrase: Beloved of God.  I am deeply appreciative of Shannon's leadership, her servant's heart, and her significant background in ministry.  Don't miss this important Sunday. 

Also available this Sunday will be the Lenten Study Guide developed by Shannon.  It is a powerful overview of Lent, offers individuals and families opportunities to experience Lent in new and powerful ways.  We are asking for a $15 donation to cover printing costs.  If you cannot afford it, please don't worry and receive a copy as our gift to you.  They are available at the Connections Desk in the narthex.

 
Guest Series   Finding God (Camp Sunday)   4/22/2012   Psalm 8, John 15:1-17   Paul Bland and AUMC Youth   audio    

It was 1965 and I still remember it like it was yesterday.  My family went to Lazy F Family camp every year.  It was one of the strongest traditions we had.  I remember the silly songs, the campfires, the messages, the leaders, and particularly the horses.  I still have a picture of me holding on to the reins of "Hi-Lo," my favorite horse.  I'm sitting up at the cross looking out over the valley.  Yep, there were still horses at Lazy F back then. 

     These past couple of weeks a reunion of sorts has emerged on Facebook.  It is the emergence of pictures and memories of Ocean Park camps from the mid-eighties.  It's been fun to relive those memories a bit, hear about the memories, the life changing aspects, and to watch in humble admiration as campers like Paul Bland have shared of the influence camp had on them then. 

     The influence has obviously continued into today.  United Methodist camping has been around for a long time.  The camps have modernized and changed.  What hasn't changed is the life-changing influence it still has on children and youth today.  This Sunday we celebrate Camp Sunday.  Some of our Aldersgate campers will share their stories and their gifts, all to remind us of the importance of United Methodist Camping Ministries.  Please pray for them as they prepare, and for Paul Bland as he prepares to bring the message.  Both services will be identical, and the energy will be in abundance.  Come and be a part of this important celebration

 
Holiday Series: Advent   Keep Awake - Read the Signs   11/27/2011   Isaiah 9:1-7, Acts 16:9-10, Mark 13:32-37   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    
As we now move into and through Advent, I will be examining three of the prophesies we hear each year at this time. The first is out of Isaiah 9; very familiar words of what is to come. Add to that a short piece of Mark's gospel and a short vision of Paul, and we'll find that the three scriptures for Sunday weave together and point us toward our future. The first prophecy is written for those walking in darkness. We then turn to Paul's vision of a man in Macedonia who pleads with him to come, and then open to Mark's concise statement of keeping awake and alert. The combination helps us to watch carefully, keep awake and alert, look for the signs, and listen for the voices of those who beckon us.   Sometimes it means we need to stop and listen, to spend intentional time to hear them over the din of Silent Night played in the Nordstrom elevator or over the speaker system in The Factoria Mall. To prepare please read Isaiah 9: 1 - 7; Acts 16: 9 -10; and Mark 13: 32 - 37
 
Holiday Series: Advent   The Cost of Peace   12/4/2011   Isaiah 11:1-6 ,II Peter 3:10-14a, Mark 1:1-8   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    
As we prepare to light the second candle of Advent, we again hear the words of Isaiah as quoted by John the Baptist. They are about peace. Having grown up in the sixties, I always thought peace had to do with war. As I've grown older I realize that true peace is not simply the absence of war. Peace is the absence, even the antithesis of chaos, confusion, even conflict in the world and in our lives. This Sunday we will explore that kind of peace; a peace that passes understanding, a peace that comes in the lives of faithful disciples, the peace that God intended at the outset, and a peace we seek in our lives, in this church, and what we seek to bring to the lives of others. To prepare please read II Peter 3: 10 - 14a, and Mark 1: 1 - 8. Also take a look at this week's prophecy. It is Isaiah 11: 1 - 6.
 
Holiday Series: Advent   To Have Such Faith   12/11/2011   Isaiah 61:1-3, I Thessalonians 5:16-24, Luke 1:39-56   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

Our focus turns to Mary and the words spoken to her relative, Elizabeth. Both were to bear sons. Both conceptions were miracles. Both these sons would continue what God began at creation; the expanding and redefining of the order of God. Both women were willing to trust enough to carry these gifts of God.   Mary, however had seen fewer years than Elizabeth and yet responds with this amazing song that beautifully reflects Hannah's song over the birth of Samuel. We will explore Mary's words, in scripture and song, and her response will be the center of the message. To prepare please read Isaiah 61:1 - 3, I Thessalonians 5:16 - 24, and Luke 1:39 - 56.

 
Holiday Series: Advent   The Fourth Sunday of Advent: Love   12/18/2011   Micah 5:2-5a, I Corinthians 12:31b-13:13, Mark 1:18-25   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

Three weeks ago, we examined hope, a potentially life changing experience on all sides of the 'hope equation.' Two weeks ago we examined peace; a peace that passes understanding, and a peace that can overcome even the most complex areas of chaos in our lives and in the world. Last week we examined joy; the joy found in the life of a young girl who was to bear the Savior of the world. O that our faith could come close to hers. This Sunday we turn our attention to love. We will have two opportunities to hear the story of love at Christmas. At the 8:50 service, the children of Aldersgate will be presenting a Christmas pageant titled, "A Christmas Celebration of Love." They will bring us the message in worship. Then at the 11:00 service we will hear the Chancel Choir sing us the Christmas story as they share "A Tapestry of Light," a Celtic Christmas cantata that shares the story of this birth with narration, candles, and song. You don't want to miss either of these services of worship. Come and make it a morning at Aldersgate, and bring family and friends and share together these wonderful experiences of Christmas.

 
Holiday Series: Christmas   Blessing of the Toys   12/25/2011     Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

Sunday morning we will have one service at 10:00am. Come as you are and bring a gift that was meaningful to you. We will talk about givers and gifts and about God as the great giver and the baby in a manger as the greatest gift of all. For the children, Brad will finally open the gift that has led to such great discussions in the Advent children's moments. Merry Christmas!

Please note that there is no Education Hour and there is only one service at 10:30am.

 
Holiday Series: Christmas   A New Year Begins   1/1/2012   Psalm 148, Luke 2:22-40   Laura Wall   audio    
There will be one service at 10am led by Laura Wall while Pastor Brad is on a study leave.
 
Holiday Series: Easter   Fools for Christ (Palm Sunday)   4/1/2012   Psalm 1 18:17-29, Mark 11:1-19   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio   pdf  
It's April Fools Day.  Somehow this is appropriate for Palm Sunday.  Many who watched Jesus thought him a fool, and those who gave up everything to follow him were considered even more foolish.  Many look at us today, those who give up a Sunday morning for church - and see us as fools.  Many believe we should not feed the hungry or clothe the naked, heal the sick or give hope to the hopeless.  Many believe we should not accept anyone who is seeking, or following this itinerate Carpenter.  To that we respond, "As for me and my (our) house, we will serve the Lord."  And yes, we are fools for Christ.  Today we watch in awe as Jesus moves from palms to passion - from being the focus of a parade to allowing his temper to get the best of him - or does it?  What does any of this mean for us on this April Fools Day?  To prepare please read Psalm 1 18: 17 - 29 and Mark 11: 1 - 19 as we prepare for worship and communion.
 
 
Holiday Series: Easter   Are you ready for Resurrection (Easter Sunday)   4/8/2012   Psalm 147: 1 – 5, John 20: 1 – 18   Reverand Shannon Hamrick   audio   pdf  
There is something so deeply mystical about the relationship between Mary and Jesus. And something so moving about their meeting in the garden by the tomb. It isn’t until he calls her by name that she recognizes who he is. Isn’t that so often the case – it isn’t until we are called by name, that we realize that God really does love even us. Despite all of our frailties, even in the midst of the gifts we possess, God names us, our eyes are opened and we are resurrected. The tomb couldn’t contain this God made flesh. Today we celebrate. He is Risen, He is Risen indeed.
 
Sermons - 2011   On Being the Church   7/10/2011   Colossians 3:12-17, Mark 10:13-16   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    
 
Sermons - 2011   Love: God, Self and Neighbor - Our Youth in Mission   7/17/2011   Micah 6:8; Mark 12:28-34   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

We are commissioning our 2011 Youth Mission Team at both services on Sunday, and then sending them forth to Salt Lake City to work at the UMCOR West Facility to prepare much needed items for shipment across the globe.  If you cannot attend on Sunday, please make a commitment to pray for them.  They leave on Sunday July 24th and will be working in Salt Lake City throughout that following week.  The sermon will be exploring what Jesus meant by "neighbor."  Come and find out.  See you in church! 

 

 
The Ten Essentials of Church Health   An Ancient Pattern Today?”   4/29/2012   Hebrews 10: 19 ‐ 25, John 4: 21 ‐ 24   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio   pdf  

This Sunday we begin a new series.  We will focus on the first of the Ten Essentials of Church Health.  The first piece is: Inspirational and Motivational Worship.  Worship is where the "family" gathers.  It is the place where most of us encounter God most readily and most often.  It is that "once a week" opportunity to lay aside the things of this world and be in a holy place for an hour (or a bit more).  There is movement in worship, even in the preparation for worship.  We move from our homes, to the church parking lot, to the narthex, to the sanctuary, through the four basic elements of worship.  Ancient studies found four key elements that add to the health and flow of a worship experience.  They include: We gather. We hear God's word.  We respond to God's word.   And we are sent forth.  We'll explore each one in more depth this week, including our attitudes as we leave home, as we arrive at Aldersgate, as we move into the narthex and then into the sanctuary.  We will explore what is to happen as we depart.  Each of these elements play an essential role in our faith, and in our relationship with our Creator, and in our relationship with each other.  There is a reason that this is first on the list.  Come and hear.

 
The Ten Essentials of Church Health   Servant Leadership   5/6/2012   Isaiah 6:1-8, II Timothy 1:3-7, Matthew 5:13-16   Pastor Brad Beeman   audio    

This Sunday we will be exploring Essential #2 and #3 for a healthy church. 

·         Essential #2 reads: Strong, focused, dedicated and spiritually-centered leadership. 

·         Essential #3 states:  The role of the pastor as one willing to "take thou authority."  So, what does it all mean?

It seems appropriate that leadership becomes the focus of worship on Volunteer Appreciation Sunday, May 6th.  Leadership is a topic that has been at the center of so many conversations around ministry, particularly in the past ten years.  But what is Christian leadership?  Are there differences between what we try and offer in the church and what is offered in business or even community leadership?  What about the pastor as a leader?  What is his or her role in leadership?  As a significant part of our Wesleyan heritage, at every United Methodist ordination, a bishop will lay their hands on the shoulders or head of the pastor being ordained.  Toward the end of the laying on of hands, the bishop will close with the words, "now take thou authority."  Like so many other things around leadership, there a lot of ways to interpret that phrase.  This Sunday we will explore authority, leadership, and the essential role of volunteers in the church, all as we prepare to share communion.